Researcher Spotlight - Dr Tom Prowse
- May 2
- 1 min read
Project: Conserving Waterbird populations of the CLLMM under climate change
The diverse waterbird community of the CLLMM is a key reason the area was recognised as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The CLLMM is important for migratory shorebirds along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, as well as for non-migratory waterbirds that breed and forage here and is a refuge for during droughts.
The project includes research on bird movement, conservation modelling, and citizen science to manage the CLLMM and surrounding areas, supporting both migratory and non-migratory waterbird populations amid climate change. Led by the University of Adelaide and the project team includes researchers from CSIRO, Flinders University and environmental NGOs including BioR, Birdlife Australia, Nature Glenelg Trust and the SA Shorebirds Foundation.
The project will provide critical information to conserve waterbirds in the region, including
Identifying key habitats for waterbirds, understanding how environmental changes affect their movements, helping with conservation planning and water management strategies
Estimating the benefits of predator control and vehicle access restrictions
Providing conservation recommendations for specific waterbird species based on detailed research and models.
It is also of cultural importance
To restore and adapt cultural practices related to waterbirds in the region
First Nations believe in the living body - the interconnectedness of land (Ruwe), water (Ma:rnmani), people (Palak), animals, and plants (Nga:tar) and that disruptions to this balance can have far-reaching effects.
Tern
World Migratory Bird Day is 10 May 2025.
Grab your binoculars and camera and get involved in Tom’s project here: Waterbird Conservation | CLLMMRC
